My dog grabbed some food with black pepper from the holiday buffet table — is that a problem?

A small amount of black pepper from a party snack is usually not a serious problem. The main risk is stomach irritation, which can cause mild vomiting or diarrhea if your dog ate a large quantity. Keep an eye on them for any signs of stomach upset over the next few hours, and ensure they have fresh water. If they start vomiting repeatedly or seem uncomfortable, a call to your regular vet is a good idea.